New York, Canada agree on Peace Bridge plan, end quarrel

BUFFALO, N.Y. — New York and Canada have agreed on a plan to speed improvements at the Peace Bridge, one of the busiest crossings between the United States and its northern neighbor.

The agreement announced Wednesday at a Buffalo boathouse near the bridge over the Niagara River ends months of dispute. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and western New York lawmakers had been frustrated by the pace of improvements on the New York side of the span.

The improvements include an enhanced inspection plaza on the Buffalo side.

The bridge is operated by the Peace Bridge Authority, a 10-member body with representatives from Canada and New York.

Cuomo didn't address the hard feelings that have marked recent talks, saying only that the authority now has a plan and "they have to do it."